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Stephen Wozniak Speaks at the Opening of the Impact Business School at Universidad Europea

20/10/2015

The co-founder of Apple, Stephen Wozniak, participated in the opening ceremony of the Impact Business School at Universidad Europea in Madrid, Spain. During his visit, Wozniak spoke about his professional experiences and the knowledge he acquired during a life dedicated to innovation, technology and finding creative solutions to problems.

“During my youth, it was impossible for a person to have a personal computer. It was simply too expensive. So with a pencil and piece of paper, I started to create my first models,” he said. He started by re-designing existing computers, but his goal was to create his own computer. In 1975, he designed his first micro-processor, which could be put into a computer that was affordable. “I built a computer because I wanted one for myself. Many of the people around me saw the extraordinary opportunities computers bring.” It was then that he met Steve Jobs.

In spite of difficulties, the pair developed the Apple II, with an innovative design that included a color monitor. Though they lacked money and the experience to be successful in the business world, they had strong external support to push their work forward. “Our history is more complex than just two kids working in a garage,” he said. “If you want to be successful in life, you need to bring your ideas as far as possible, with the least amount of money possible,” he continued. For him, the revolutionary geniuses are “those who create things, solving problems at a reasonable price. This is what I call creative success. I love seeing young people open new businesses.”

For Mr. Wozniak, the key to success in education is a passion to transform yourself into what you want to be. “In my life, I’ve had successes and failures, but I worked towards my goals, had good ideas, and always focused on problem solving.” When asked specifically about education, he confirmed he does not believe students under 8 years of age should be taking tests and that technology should be used as a tool to further teaching and learning.

The Impact Business School, a new initiative launched by Universidad Europea, will begin in the 2015-16 academic year. Structured as a business school that targets young people without professional experience, courses offered will focus on new technologies and innovative business models to prepare students and help them develop their talents for the job market.

This article has been translated into English to be shared on the Laureate International Universities website.